We have previously demonstrated how DNA-based “robot arms” can be moved using externally applied electric fields. In this paper we show that due to the intrinsic anisotropic energy landscape of the underlying DNA origami structure, such structures can also act as Brownian motors. We show that DNA robot arms rotate uni-directionally even if we do not apply a rotating electric field, but simply switch a linear electric field back and forth. This work indicates that achieving Brownian motor-like behavior does not necessarily require intricate design, but emerges naturally from intrinsic asymmetries.
Rothfischer, F., Vogt, M., Kopperger, E., Gerland, U. & Simmel, F. C. From Brownian to Deterministic Motor Movement in a DNA-Based Molecular Rotor. Nano Lett. 24, 5224–5230 (2024).